Rwanda: Moments in Showbiz That Made News 2012

The past year will remain truly memorable in the lives of Rwandans, especially where the entertainment industry was concerned.

Some events were important for the progress of the trade while others were damaging. Celebrity romances gone bad, exclusive rivalries between musicians, bad blood between some artistes and sections of the media, and posh celebrity weddings. These and many more events earned a considerable share of media coverage and also became the centre of gossip around town.

Some of the particular aspects in the lives of celebrities/socialites that attracted a lot of attention in the year 2012 are highlighted below:

Former Miss Rwanda, Bahati Grace's surprise pregnancy

This news was received with utter shock. The fact that this happened before wedlock, yet she was a respected public figure, was perceived as setting a bad example to the younger generation. More so because she was expected to be a role model to many young girls. Many predicted that she would be stripped of her crown but this didn't come to pass, although she didn't get to had over the crown to the current Miss Rwanda.

Lick Lick Vs other artistes

Immediately after his departure to the U.S in January 2012, controversy followed- Jay Polly came out and claimed Lick Lick owed him Rwf1.5m. Before long, while in the U.S, he fell out with a female rapper, Paccy, who is the mother to his kid. This all started after Lick Lick allegedly publically called her a "fool".

The grudge between Jay Polly and some sections of the media

Around September 2012, rapper Jay Polly became exceptionally vocal, with unkind words targeting media houses that were critical of his music and conduct. And this wasn't well received by some in the media fraternity who, in turn, dragged him to court while others vowed not to give his music any airplay.

Songs spotlighted for having indecent lyrics

Some lyrics received criticism from members of the public and the Ministry of Culture for containing explicit content. Some of the songs that gained a lot of notoriety were 'Bagupfusha Ubusa' by DJ Zizou featuring All Stars and 'Umukaraza' by Riderman.

Many pointed out that some music had diverted from its cardinal principle of offering moral lessons to becoming a podium for spreading obscenity and offensive language. However, custodians of these songs responded by arguing that music, being a platform for expression, they had the right to put across whatever they wished.

Bad blood between DJ Adams and artistes

2012 also saw a number of musicians come at logger heads with a local radio presenter known as DJ Adams (he has since left his job at City Radio) who they accused of repeatedly "unfairly judging" their music. Singer Tom Close, more than once, had bitter exchanges with him over the radio because of the issue.

Tom Close and Tricia get engaged

It's last year that local icon Tom Close made his relationship with his long time girlfriend Tricia official by proposing to her. They plan to wed sometime this year.

A clue to their upcoming nuptials was first deciphered after they were spotted in some mall around town, shopping for wedding outfits. Tom Close later disclosed his wedding plans on social networks and other media outlets.

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